I was about a month out from weight loss surgery and I was determined to “do it the right way,” which for me meant getting more active. I set a goal for myself to try a new sport every month until I ran out of sports. (18 months later and I still haven’t run out!)
A friend from work suggested I come to KnuckleUp. Kickboxing was one of the first things I tried. The “old Karen” would never have considered this. But, I wanted to get out of my comfort zone and out from in front of the table or the TV and get seriously physical.
In the past, I always felt a gym was just a gym. But, KnuckleUp was a different experience. They have great instructors for starters, like Stephen, Phillip, Moe, CJ, Gui and so on, and it’s a place where they know my name and care about what I’m doing and how I’m doing. I think everyone was just about as happy at my progress as I was.
Since joining KnuckleUp, I have lost over 100 pounds. Kickboxing classes really helped, but it was the Biggest Loser challenges and the Boot Camps with Stephen that really got me into high gear. I got lean and healthy – I’m not one of those people who look all pale and flabby after weight loss.
To be honest, I wasn’t sure I could do it. I was worried I would fail or that I would look like an idiot. I hate being embarrassed. In the end, my fears were a waste of time and breath – no one cares what I look like or what I’m wearing at KnuckleUp – they just care that I’m trying my hardest and sweating my guts out like everyone else.
“…it’s a place where they know my name and care about what I’m doing and how I’m doing.”
My favorite moments with KnuckleUp on weight loss journey have been Stephen’s bootcamps by far! Winning 3rd place in the biggest loser challenge was pretty wonderful. Phillips’s 6:30 am classes are great, but mainly because he’s so cute!
To anyone who is considering KnuckleUp to lose weight, I would say DO IT! Do it now. And do yourself a favor and sign up for the great 3-year deal; you’ll never be sorry. You’ll only be sorry if you don’t give it your all to be the most amazing athlete you can be. And frankly, three years ago I would never have thought I’d call myself an athlete. With KnuckleUp, you won’t be alone. You won’t be bored. You won’t fail.